PUBLIC support for two marvels of British maritime history whose future is at risk has gone global.

The SRN4 Hovercraft, housed at the Hovercraft Museum in Lee-on-Solent, are in danger of being destroyed as the land they sit on is being developed.

But trustees have gathered nearly 15,000 signatures in less than a week, with people from all over the world lobbying to save the craft.

Museum trustee Emma Pullen said: “We’ve had calls and emails from every single country in the world. It’s been completely overwhelming and we never realised how much support there was out there. We still need as many signatures as we can get so that the Homes and Communities Agency don’t take their decision lightly.”

Although the royal family are unable to comment on political matters, Princess Anne has voiced support.

Trustee Warwick Jacobs said: “She is sympathetic and her secretary assured us the issue was on the top of her desk.”

Hovercraft Museum patron and explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes has petitioned and the daughter of hovercraft pioneer Sir Christopher Cockerell, Frances Cockerell, has also been in touch with the museum.

People are asked to sign one of the two petitions set up by the museum.

Mr Jacobs added: “We’ve been swept away on this tidal wave of public support that is encouraging us. But we’re cautiously optimistic because it’s out of our hands now.”

The 300 tonne vessels have recently been handed over to the Homes and Communities Agency who own the Daedalus Airfield, where the vessels have been since their decommission in 2000.

The agency (HCA) said: “The former airbase in South Hampshire is being transformed into the area’s largest employment site.

"Our aim is to develop the land to create much needed homes and jobs, and regenerate the local area. However we take our responsibility to national heritage seriously.

“We are talking to local partners to find a solution and considering all options, including proposals from the Hovercraft Museum to save one of the craft.”

Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage hoped the museum would get the SRN4 Princess Anne.

MP for Gosport Caroline Dinenage said: “I am hopeful that a deal can be struck which will enable the museum to gain an important addition to their collection – SRN4 Princess Anne – that adds to the site and does not distract from developing the waterfront area of Daedalus.”